Build a Propeller or SX based project that's cool enough to get your mother to pick up a soldering iron. It can be standalone (a plant watering reminder-er) or modify something she already has (fuel usage tracker for her chopper), but you can't ask her to gut anything around the house for parts (like pull the flyback transformer from her TV).

The Project has to utilize a Propeller or SX. To enter, you'll need some photos or video showing it working and a brief description of what it does.

1st place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Penguin Walking Robot (http://www.parallax.com/Store/Robots/WalkingRobots/tabid/129/CategoryID/21/List/0/SortField/0/Level/a/ProductID/438/Default.aspx) for yourself.

2nd place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Gadget Gangster Propeller Development Pack (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/grab-a-designers-pack/36-submit-project/87-get-a-designers-kit.html).

3rd place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Gadget Gangster Hoodie.

OBC has volunteered to help me judge, & his son will act as tiebreaker. Hurry! All entries must be in by Midnight Pacific, May 17th, 2009.

ALSO, if you don't want to buy a boss board (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/bossboard), don't forget we send out a free pack of boards to anyone who signs up (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/sell-your-project.html), so you can enter the contest without buying anything.

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Got a few questions via PM. Thought I'd answer on the thread in case anyone else has the same q's.

Does the project have to built with a boss board?
- Yes. I sell a 2 pack of boards for $15 (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/find-a-project/87.html). I also mail out a sample board to anyone who signs up as a designer (free - see signature!)

Can you provide a picture that shows the copper layer of the boss board?
- Yep. Attached. 3 layers - silkscreen, top and bottom copper.

Do you sell parts from your inventory for designing?
- If you don't have all the parts you need on hand, login as a designer, and click 'go here to submit your project'. Each component will be listed with a link to 'source', where to get it straight from the distributor. Alternatively, you can submit your project and I'll send you a link to buy the components from us.

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Bill Henning

04-01-2009, 08:08 AM

Slightly OT:

Nice protoboards, I just ordered the new Gangsta 2 pack and the full/half board 2 pack... Looking forward to seeing how well they work!

Nick McClick said...
Here's the contest:

Build a Propeller or SX based project that's cool enough to get your mother to pick up a soldering iron. It can be standalone (a plant watering reminder-er) or modify something she already has (fuel usage tracker for her chopper), but you can't ask her to gut anything around the house for parts (like pull the flyback transformer from her TV).

The Project has to utilize a Propeller or SX. To enter, you'll need some photos or video showing it working and a brief description of what it does.

1st place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Penguin Walking Robot (http://www.parallax.com/Store/Robots/WalkingRobots/tabid/129/CategoryID/21/List/0/SortField/0/Level/a/ProductID/438/Default.aspx) for yourself.

2nd place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Gadget Gangster Propeller Development Pack (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/grab-a-designers-pack/36-submit-project/87-get-a-designers-kit.html).

3rd place prize:
Your project in kit form; ready to be the perfect mothers day gift and a Gadget Gangster Hoodie.

OBC has volunteered to help me judge, & his son will act as tiebreaker. Hurry! All entries must be in by Midnight Pacific, April 30th, 2009.

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www.mikronauts.com (http://www.mikronauts.com) - a new blog about microcontrollers

Nick McClick

04-01-2009, 11:55 PM

Compliments are always on topic :). I'd love to take credit, but they're really just the culmination of everyone's suggestions, requests, and wishlists.

My hope for these boards is that they'll be useful for regular development with the added benefit that you can publish and sell projects you design using them. Unless you need VGA, why buy a protoboard?

Also, added a few components to the inventory (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/sell-your-project/83.html). Let me know if you need something for your project. I added a PIR sensor, a TO-92 thermometer, a few discrete logic chips, A MIDI converter cable and a TIP120 power transistor

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Nick McClick

04-03-2009, 03:05 AM

Put up an official contest page, here (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/sell-your-project/138.html). I've also reorganized the inventory so it's easier to find things & added a PS/2 splitter cable so you can connect a mouse and keyboard.

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jazzed

04-03-2009, 03:22 AM

"Stair lights" ... that's a pretty awesome idea Nick. Overkill for Propeller but great for SX, etc..., a blue LED, Altoids Tin, maybe some Velcro, and a AA batteries. Wonder if IR rx/tx would be good enough for a detector?

stair lights could be done very easily in analog. photo transistor and opamp are all you need. I think with tweaking and careful choice of led you could get rid of opamp

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Need to make your prop design easier or secure? Get a PropMod (http://propmodule.com) has crystal, eeprom, and programing header in a 40 pin dip 0.7" pitch module with uSD reader, and RTC options.

Nick McClick

04-04-2009, 12:58 AM

My biggest gripe about the prop was the price. Now that it's $8, I think it's pretty much perfect. Overkill? SURE! But there's no penalty for overkill in the contest. Besides, my dream stair lights would have pwm, a distance sensor to turn on when you get near, an rtc to turn blue during night and green during the evening, variable brightness based on ambient light, and they'd blink when I get an email.

An analog version could work! Why not just a photoresistor, transistor and a few resistors? Of course, if you threw in an SX, you could do pwm and make it fancy. I do stock 3 opamps - the LM358, and the LM741, and LM386.

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Post Edited (Nick McClick) : 4/3/2009 6:14:07 PM GMT

Vaati

04-04-2009, 01:04 AM

:!Don't steal this idea!!:

Okay, here it is: a wall-mounted car key finder.· You just press a button on the project box mounted on the wall and it makes a beeping sound.· Using RFID, you would have an RF tag on a keychain attached to the keys.· there would also be a buzzer on the keychain, which would make a higher-pitched beeping sound.· Once the keys are found, another button on the main box would be pressed, stopping the beeping noise.

How 'bout that?

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:47:44 PM GMT

mctrivia

04-04-2009, 01:10 AM

well you would not use

radio frequency identification

to low power and not what it is ment for but otherwise cool

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Need to make your prop design easier or secure? Get a PropMod (http://propmodule.com) has crystal, eeprom, and programing header in a 40 pin dip 0.7" pitch module with uSD reader, and RTC options.

jazzed

04-04-2009, 02:47 AM

We've all had the beeping keys or tv remote or whatever idea :) problem with your implementation is RFID requires you to get close ... maybe not so bad for a tv remote if you carry the locator around ... until you lose the locator. I guess it would be like the "getting warmer" game. Maybe you could use a periodic low power ultrasonic speaker and microphone combo?

On the stair lights ... I was thinking that the LED would only be on when someone is on the stairs and would stay on until a timer expires to save batteries ... guess you could do the same with a couple of 555s and a big capacitor. I certainly would not want to use a wall wart power supply for the controller.

Personally, the coolest thing to me is how you add videos to your project page (or profile), just use a
tag. It automatically figures out what video hosting service you're using and creates the code.
So for youtube, it would be [video]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DfbNSBUbFU, or say vimeo,
http://www.vimeo.com/2442969

Also, if you don't want to buy a boss board (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/bossboard), don't forget we send out a free pack of boards to anyone who signs up, so you can enter the contest without buying anything.

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Post Edited (Nick McClick) : 4/6/2009 8:15:16 PM GMT

JasonDorie

04-07-2009, 02:44 AM

mctrivia said...
stair lights could be done very easily in analog. photo transistor and opamp are all you need. I think with tweaking and careful choice of led you could get rid of opamp

Sure, but then you'd have a hard time doing this:·· http://alan-parekh.com/projects/stair-lights/

These ones fade out from top to bottom or bottom to top, depending on where they're initiated from, which I thought was a pretty nice touch.

Jason
·

Nick McClick

04-07-2009, 12:34 PM

For some reason, I find it hard to picture my mom drilling holes into the sides of the stairwell, I was thinking of something a little more lightweight and cheaper. That's a cool project though! I like how he uses a laser to activate the lights.

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jazzed

04-07-2009, 01:59 PM

Jason that was neat. I really wanted to see the cat come back down the stairs.

I bought some PIR modules last year, but they just collect dust. This looks like a perfect use for them: 100ua for PIR + 100ua for SX at 32KHz + modulating LEDs = long 3xAAA battery life ... I hope :).

Now if we could only get a cheap WIFI solution for Propeller, we could have an explosion of ubiquitous household products.

I've been seeing a profusion of Ethernet / serial adapters - I could always add one to the stock. I also have an RJ11/45 breakout board and an ENC28J60 in the inventory. I love the zigbee's but they're too expensive.

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I think that i will do a project that is like an alarm clock, except it goes off when one of the items being watched on eBay is bid on by someone else or it is about to end.· How do you think i would go about making such a device, equipped with an SX48 proto board, an SX Blitz, and of course, the Boss board and wall wart?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:48:03 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-09-2009, 07:35 AM

That sounds like a pretty cool project - Mothers love eBay!

Just thinking thru it, people usually find an auction with a variable amount of time remaining. So, they'll need a way to enter how much time is left, and a way to see what they've entered.

For output, you could use a TV (kind of silly), or you could use an LCD display. I think an 8x2 or 16x2 LCD display would work fine. My LCD displays are all HD44780 based.

You'd also need an input. you could use; a keyboard, mouse, NES controller, Potentiometer, or tactile switches. I think a Pot would be a cool way to set the time, and a few tactile switches for cancelling a countdown / etc.

I'd also add in a few alert do-dad's. Maybe a blinky LED (I have bicolor LED's which are pretty cool), or a mini speaker. I'm not sure how to connect it to ebay (that might get complicated), but most people just wait until the end of the auction to start bidding, anyway.

@jazzed
You can click 'submit your project' and add a note that you just need the parts. I'll send you a link to buy the parts from me. Personally, I think that's the best way because you can be sure your project will work with my parts. Does that work?

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Yeah, the omron one is better. 3V coil, 2amps and a standard footprint. I've switched it over. I'd rather use a more expensive part that makes the project easier to build & a 3V coil will make it easier.

By the way, there was a bug in the parts order-er (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/sell-your-project/145.html), but it's fixed now.

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ProcessingData...

04-11-2009, 02:39 AM

Whoa, cool boards! Just got them today. I'll order a propeller plug and be on my way!
(Oh, do you have on your list a common cathode 7-segment display?)

Glad you like them! If you need a PDF of the copper layer on the boss board, it's at the bottom of this page (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/bossboard). When I'm working with them, sometimes I use a sharpie to mark certain areas.

Got a common cathode 7-seg in the LED tab.

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Sure:
I've done a few pdf setup guides for Propeller (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/ggnew/forums/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=81) and SX (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/ggnew/forums/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=87), but to breakdown each part;

Pa: input capacitor for Voltage Regulator
Pb: Reverse polarity protection diode (1N4001)
Pc: Primary Regulator. It connects to the Vin of the Prop or SX, M1-Z1, and the power rails at rows E / F
Pd: Output cap for secondary regulator
Pe: Output cap for primary regulator
Pf: Secondary Regulator. It connects to M2-Z2
Pg: Slide switch
Ph: Slide switch
Pj: Either 3.5mm headphone jack or a potentiometer. It's designed to work with the Alps pots in the inventory
Pk: Either 3.5mm headphone jack or a pot.
Pm: MiniDIN. For Midi, use the 6pin miniDIN and the miniDIN - Midi converter cable in inventory
Pn: NES controller jack
Pp: RCA, the inner pin connects to GHJ26 (You'd probably use this for audio)
Pq: RCA, connects to parts [Pr], [Ps], [Pt]. This is for video out
Pr: For prop video DAC, 560 ohms
Ps: For prop video DAC, 1.1k ohms
Pt: For prop video DAC, 270 ohms
Pw: EEPROM. Pin 1 is at D1
Px: Pull-up resistor, 10k ohms
Py: resistor for LED at [Pz]
Pz: Power indicator LED

I have received my boards recently and I like them so much that if I don't need one right away I will end up ordering from you!

P.S. How much do you charge for shipping?

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-12-2009, 04:34 AM

Thanks! Glad you like them. Shipping is $3 in the US, $5 international.

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Nick McClick

04-15-2009, 12:11 PM

Got the 1st place prize in the mail today:
http://www.gadgetgangster.com/images/penguin.jpg
The packaging is really nice - they did a great job with it. I didn't realize it has a digital compass, 2 IR LED's, and 2 photoresistors. Good stuff.

2 weeks left! If you're international and still need boards, this is the last call - airmail takes about 10 days.

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Post Edited (Nick McClick) : 4/15/2009 5:16:56 AM GMT

Microcontrolled

04-15-2009, 09:20 PM

Could you allow me to use a large protoboard instead of a boss board? For my project I need their to be a video that does NOT lead straight through the streaming resistors into the propeller pins. The boss board is handy, but not versitle enough for my project. I'm hoping to make that penguin mine! http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/devil.gif

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

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Microcontrolled

04-15-2009, 11:18 PM

I need a way that you can run 2 RCA jacks. One for input, one for output. Video goes into one and goes out the other, and when the propeller wants to display something it uses a relay to switch the output to the propeller output and not the external video input. Then the relay switches back to the external video. This is so that the prop can display a message for a second while you are watching TV. This could also work simply if you added the male RCA jack to your inventory. then I could use the audio jack for video_in and attatch wires to the male end as an output. It could be like those connectors they sell at Radio Shack for reparing cables where this part has fallen off. This would be a good item to add to your inventory. http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-15-2009, 11:28 PM

Another way to do it is to add pin headers to the top of the boss board and pin sockets to the bottom of a halfboard and make a 'shield'. The halfboard has 2x video out (and it's part of the inventory). That also gives you a little more prototyping space.

Even if there wasn't a contest, I wouldn't suggest doing a prop-based project on the half / full boards, it's a pain just to do the basic hook up.

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Microcontrolled

04-16-2009, 05:40 AM

You are right about it being a pain just to do the basic hook up. I didn't know that you allowed more than one board for the project. I am a designer on your site and I was hoping to submit this as a kit even if it didn't win. I was kind of wondering if this kind of setup was allowed or not.

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-16-2009, 08:21 AM

Yep - the other boards are in the inventory, so you can use them with the boss board as part of your entry.

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trodoss

04-17-2009, 04:36 AM

@Nick,
I have something I was going to try as an entry, but requires (of all things) a USB Female Type A SMD Connector.

Something like this would be good:
http://www.sparkfun.com/datasheets/Prototyping/Connectors/USBFemaleTypeA.pdf
http://anacapa.kycon.com/Pub_Eng_Draw/KUSBLX-SMT-AS1N-x.pdf

Any chance of getting one of those added to your inventory (= available for contest)?· I know it might not be a 'common' part·in other designs, but someone making a USB·project (or one that includes an FTDI FT232RL) might find that useful.

[Edit:] And...while I was thinking about it... If a part used·is·something that you have in inventory (Like an RCA Jack), but you build the 'prototype' with one on hand, would that be considered ok?

Thanks,
--trodoss

Post Edited (trodoss) : 4/16/2009 11:14:44 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-17-2009, 09:44 AM

Would a Type B connector work? The thru hole USB type B fits at [Pm]. By the way - thanks for your order! I've thrown in a few type B jacks in the envelope so you can give it a try.

I'm probably never going to carry surface mount parts - my goal is to sell projects and the public perception of surface mount is, 'it's a pain.' For surface mount only parts (like the FTDI and SD card sockets), I'll carry breakout boards (already carry a breakout for SD card).

Oh - regarding RCA jacks - a part is a part, It doesn't need to be the exact same jack, just as long as it fits and works.

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trodoss

04-17-2009, 06:48 PM

@Nick,

Thanks!· Type B would work just as well, and thru hole works better for an 'on board' solution.·

I am trying to stick with "what is in inventory" as much as possible (using 1.1k ohm instead of 1.5k, and 47 for 68 ohm resistors, etc).· Should still work fine.

Post Edited (trodoss) : 4/17/2009 1:33:03 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-18-2009, 12:39 AM

I think I'm good on Resistors (I carry about 30) - but let me know if I'm missing a value that you really need / can't substitute another value.

If you need any caps or inductors added, just let me know.

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Microcontrolled

04-20-2009, 06:12 AM

My Relay I am using in my project looks different and may have different pinouts than the one in your inventory. Can I still use it?

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

SRLM

04-20-2009, 01:13 PM

Can I make a suggestion?

I think you need a quick reference for your new boards. I'm working on laying out my perpetual project right now, and I find I'm having to go between the board, this page where you list things, and the two trace diagrams you provide. What I would like to see are a pair of quick reference diagrams:
1. Just the essentials. This will show every component on the board to get the particular chip up and running. It should use color to label things like dedicated power lines (+5V, +3.3V, and GND), it should label all pins of the microcontroller, and it should make clear any other potential pitfalls
2. Everything the microcontroller can provide. This includes things like video, pots, controller, etc. It should also include all of what #1 does.

The quick reference should have the board layout, and other essential information such as what's in that list you provided further up, including part values and labels. Also, the board size and hole spacing on that page would be nice.

Just a thought.

P.S. I also think that if you go with this suggestion that you take another: start with the Propeller! http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Nick McClick

04-20-2009, 01:52 PM

Do these help? (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/ggnew/forums/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=81) Not sure if it's exactly what you're looking for.

RE part substitution. It's fine if your part is different as long as the inventory part is a swap-out and will work, but a different pin-out is a problem.

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SRLM

04-20-2009, 02:35 PM

No, I was thinking a single page, without any sort of setup guide. Something that could be printed out and posted on the wall. What I think would be ideal would have multiple colors for major themes (voltage, I/Os, assorted pins, chip surface area) where all traces are highlighted in the correct color with respect to their function. You would only need to use the top side (where the letters are facing correctly), since you'll be able to quickly assume what's under the board. If you point me in the direction of an image file of the board top (.png preferably) then I can give you an example/start.

As a side note, I think your placement of the prop-plug is not good. As it stands, the plug is in the way of some prime real estate, area where my design is taking space. So, what about putting the plug in the row labeled SX, SX[4:1]? These are the four holes, one from the end, on the Z side of the board. There's no real use for the holes as it stands, and nothing useful like I/O pins live around there. It also makes use of two holes for the RES and TX lines that also connect from the SX and are covered up by the prop.

Microcontrolled

04-20-2009, 10:25 PM

I don't think that my pinout is different; but I am using a 9V relay and not a reed relay.

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-20-2009, 11:26 PM

If the 5v relay will work as a substitue, that's fine, then. As long as your project can be built with the inventory we stock. If you need the 9V relay, let me know and I can add it in.

@srlm - Here's a hires (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/board_detail.jpg) image of the boss board. I think I understand what you're looking for. If you can show me a setup or two, I can crank them out.

For the prop plug - there are a ton of different placement options. That's an option, or programming off board, or whichever way. The way I did it on the howto was optimized for ease, and it does take up some good real estate.

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Nick McClick

04-21-2009, 02:35 AM

What do you think of the guide attached? It's really rough (A single page reference would be ideal), but am I on the right track?

Edit - here's a pdf version

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Post Edited (Nick McClick) : 4/20/2009 7:59:03 PM GMT

SRLM

04-21-2009, 03:20 AM

Sort of. I was thinking along the line of using these http://www.gadgetgangster.com/images/stories/boards.pdf diagrams, instead of a photograph. That way you can see all the traces and just use the bitmap color fill tool to highlight what you need. You can also put the different layers on top of each other too, and lots of other things that you can't do with a photograph. BTW, this is intended to help designers layout components, not help the builders. Can you post or send a link to the raw image files? I can whip out a draft by the evening if you do.

Microcontrolled

04-21-2009, 04:36 AM

That is a good diagram for the builders, but SLRM is right; it would be really nice if the trace diagram, the part code definition and the part placement diagram was all on one page.
I still like the diagram that is there, however, because it is a handy tool for setting up the boss board.

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-21-2009, 07:45 AM

I've attached an image and the ExpressPCB file. Does that help?

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mctrivia

04-21-2009, 07:55 AM

that is a great layout for through whole designs.

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Need to make your prop design easier or secure? Get a PropMod (http://propmodule.com) has crystal, eeprom, and programing header in a 40 pin dip 0.7" pitch module with uSD reader, and RTC options.

SRLM

04-21-2009, 01:43 PM

Okay, here is my version. I've uploaded both the exported JPG and the original PNGs. I went ahead and just took a screen shot of the PDF, since I don't have ExpressPCB installed. The colors are a little awakward, but I think they get the idea accross. I haven't worked on the bottom part of the board, and it probably needn't be included in the quick reference. It's there merely for legacy reasons.

Also, it should be fairly simple (<5 hours) to make a simple flash program to take the user between layers of the board. I like the board, but it's pretty complicated and difficult to figure out where every connection goes.

BTW, today when I was soldering it up in the electronics shop on campus, I got quite a few questions about the board. I think people like it.

What do you think about the quick reference idea?

trodoss

04-21-2009, 05:50 PM

@SRLM,

That is very helpful! Thanks for the hard work!

Microcontrolled

04-21-2009, 06:59 PM

Wow, both versions are good! This will keep me from having to look at the screen, then the board, then the layout!!
Good work everyone!

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-21-2009, 11:39 PM

srlm's is way better than mine. srlm - do you mind if I add it to www.gadgetgangster.com/bossboard (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/bossboard)? I'll put together an SX & PICaxe version, too.

My biggest complaint about the board is how hard it is to figure out what goes where - part of the problem is that you're using a chip that has 35 i/o, so it's hard to keep track of it all. It's also hard to see the traces - I've been using a sharpie to mark up the board while working on the board, and that's been pretty helpful.

Just a heads up - if you still need boards, you have a day or two to sign up!

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SRLM

04-22-2009, 01:35 AM

@nick
Sure, you can post it on gg. I'll probably work more on it in the next week or so, and get it a little more user friendly and double check all the connections. I also don't like the way that I have the additional chips laid out. I'll probably change that to a semi-transparent style later on.

I think it might be helpful if you were to come up with some sort of standard that all Gadget Gangster board layouts should follow (drawn layouts, that is, not photos). For example, what color is 5V? What color is an I/O pin? What colors can the user dedicate functions to? It's almost like an ASCII style for the colors. This will help standardize across a wide range of you intellectual products.

trodoss

04-22-2009, 02:13 AM

@Nick,
It looks like, on the PS/2 [Pm] area on the Boss Board, what would be used as "data" (A23? Second hole from the left--the one that ties back above B26) is also connected to the NES port's "data" line (it's Pin 5 -- top right corner of the board). Is it designed to be an "either/or" and you cut one or the other connection above B26, or am I missing something?

The NES and keyboard share a data out. This is only an issue if you want to use keyboard and NES at the same time, otherwise, it's not a problem. You can run the NES controllers at 5v, I'm not sure if you can work thru it in code (switch drivers), but you can also use the PS/2 Breakout board I have in stock (or use two if you'd like to add mouse AND keyboard).

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trodoss

04-24-2009, 01:35 AM

@Nick,

On the design·I have made, I just cut the trace and it works fine.··I am using the NES port and the USB connector without need of a breakout board.· It does take a little more 'jumpering' than I had originally thought·to get the USB connector to work on that port, but it does work.

I am using· the NES at 3.3V, although in theory I could jumper the +5V connection off of the USB connection to anything with that power requirement (or even power the entire board).··

Nick McClick

04-24-2009, 01:48 AM

Oh - that makes sense. Well - the NES controllers are 3.3v & 5v compliant, so I wouldn't worry about that. Cutting the trace is fine, too. The build looks very nice - what's the project?

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Microcontrolled

04-24-2009, 02:06 AM

7 days? My project still isn't done and I am going on a week long vacation tomarow! I guess I won't get to enter my project... time got ahead of me. I guess I can still submit it to gadget gangster since I am a designer, or salvage the parts and make something else to submit to him.

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

trodoss

04-24-2009, 02:38 AM

@Nick,
It is something that mom would love... A way for mom to connect to the PC and see what is going on (a kind of remote file browser). I have been calling it "The Informer."

I am working on getting some of the "kinks" in the PC-side code worked out now that I have the build completed/tested/documented. I am hoping that I will have time between now and the due date to get it working 100% (otherwise I will be in the same sitution as microcontrolled).

Microcontrolled

04-24-2009, 02:58 AM

My project was going to be a video game timer. It plugged one end into the TV and another end into an input device. When turned on it would detect the input and the video out would switch to the Propeller. You would select the period of time with the controller and press START. at 5 minutes until it would shut down, it would display"Wrap it up! Shutdowm in 5 minutes" at 2 minutes it would display "Save your game! Shutdown in 2 minutes" and at shutdown it would flash a screen that says "Shutdown" This simply took the TV Text object and the NES object. It is a shame I didn't get it finished.

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Vaati

04-24-2009, 03:03 AM

Don't give up!!· Me, I have to solve my circuit, LEARN SPIN!!· AND program my project as well as its peripherals.· ALL IN 7 DAYS!!· [I want that Penguin...· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/devil.gif ]

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:49:03 PM GMT

trodoss

04-24-2009, 03:33 AM

@microcontrolled,
That is a great sounding idea! Definately someting that mom would love (and kids would probably hate ;) Hopefully you can get it done sometime.· Certianly sounds like a fun project.

Microcontrolled

04-24-2009, 10:17 PM

You most likely not expecting me to respond today because I am supposed to be on a trip. The trip happend to get delayed 2 days but that is still not enough time to get things done. I wish I worked on the project more while I still had a chance but my project still needs parts that I do not have enough time to order, so I will not be finishing it for the competion. I need a 3 volt relay, an RCA jack, and a 3.3v regulator; but I have been in the hole lately and could not afford to order a few parts.

Actully, compared to the video game timers that are currently on the market, this one kids would like more; because it gives you a warning to save your game so that if you loose track of time your progress is not deleated. Also, since it only cuts off the video out it wouldn't ruin your game progress because it doesn't shut down the system. This is the main advantage of the system.

Edit: Don't you dare steal this idea anybody! If there is a contest next year I will build it!http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

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Toys are microcontroled.
Robots are microcontroled.
I am microcontrolled.

Nick McClick

04-28-2009, 12:25 AM

Contest or not - you can always sell your project on Gadget Gangster! You don't need to wait until next year.

Just a few days left - let me know if I need to add anything to the inventory.

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Vaati

04-28-2009, 12:28 AM

Oh no... only 3 more days left to win the Penguin! I am determined to win this contest!! Even though I haven't even successfully connected my Propeller to the computer... =(

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:49:23 PM GMT

SRLM

04-28-2009, 01:41 AM

I too have encountered problems. I've been working on my project for months (since January) and had kept everything in a food tuppaware to keep it all together. Unfortunately, I seem to have lost it. I still have the Boss board with everything soldered on there, but the tuppaware had the blue LEDs that I wanted to use. I guess for this iteration I'll just have to go with green or red... Oh well.

Nick McClick

04-28-2009, 02:59 AM

I like the blue LED's but they're expensive. I know Turd was working on a light show project that used them - I wonder how he's doing.

OT, but 2 new projects posted recently: I put up my Xbox Live Headset Amp (http://www.GadgetGangster.com/133) a few days ago. grandtippler just put up his MemAxe - 8bit Sound Effects Memory Game (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/135). He's been able to do some pretty fun (and popular) projects with just a PICaxe 08M - I've been surprised.

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Vaati

04-28-2009, 10:39 PM

I will have only ONE DAY to work on my idea!!!· My Prop Plug didn't come in the mail today!!· Do you think it's possible for me to learn Spin, make my project, program it, and document/submit it all in one day?· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/shakehead.gif·· I think it would be cutting it a bit close...

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:49:35 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-28-2009, 11:35 PM

Ha! I'm not sure that you'd have enough time to do a complicated project - maybe if you limited the scope? Anyway - I posted the gerbers / ExpressPCB / dxf files for the boards, srlm's excellent quick reference, and a version I hacked together for PICaxe, here (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/find-a-project/104.html).

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Nick McClick

04-29-2009, 11:32 PM

Just a few hours left!

Also, what do you think of QR codes? Does anyone use them? I've added them to project pages, but I'm wondering if it's more of a curiosity than anything else. Also, I redid the Designer Packs Listings (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/find-a-project/85.html?subcat=26). I think this actually makes it easier to find files and guides that relate to development for each ucontroller.

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Vaati

04-29-2009, 11:40 PM

Hey Nick,

I have the Prop Development Pack, the Prop plug, the USB cable to connect the Prop, the Propeller and the EEPROM of course, a power supply, and a computer to hook my Propeller up to.

It doesn't work.

Is there anything whatsoever that I need to know about hooking the prop up on the boss board?· i.e.; any special things that have to be modified so it can work?· Also, what about the baud rate or whatever it's called and the reset signal?· What do those need to be set on?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:49:46 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-29-2009, 11:42 PM

Take a look thru these setup guides (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=81) - is everything setup the same way?

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Vaati

04-29-2009, 11:49 PM

The one thing that I didn't really see explained in those guides was which regulator goes where.· Other than that, I am checking every single connection now.· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/eyes.gif

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:49:56 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-29-2009, 11:56 PM

The 3.3v regulator (The ST) goes at [Pc]

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Vaati

04-30-2009, 12:03 AM

Wait--- Does the Prop work if the other regulator is in....? Also, are all the necessary pins of the prop connected to Vss/Vdd already?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:50:05 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-30-2009, 12:04 AM

Yep and yep.

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Vaati

04-30-2009, 12:43 AM

I checked my circuit with those pdf's twice over, and didn't find anything amiss.· I have some pictures attached of the circuit on the Boss Board, so you can look...

One final question: does flux conduct?· If so, then...· I am in a world of trouble...· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:50:21 PM GMT

Vaati

04-30-2009, 01:58 AM

Okay, I just want to make sure all of this is correct: When I plug in my Prop Plug to the Propeller on the Boss Board and then connect the USB to mini B cable to the Prop Plug and the computer, the blue and red lights blink, then stop. I then plug in the wall-wart and the power LED on the Boss Board turns on. When I hit F7 in order to scan the ports for the Propeller, it says "No Propeller chip found on any serial port. Unable to connect to COM1. Scanned COM4." Can someone explain what that means, and if it's what it's supposed to say?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:50:31 PM GMT

Vaati

04-30-2009, 02:07 AM

Also--- It seems as if the SCL on the EEPROM isn't connected to the Propeller.... Is that so.... ?

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:50:40 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-30-2009, 02:21 AM

Ha! Yeah, the SCL is connected, the trace is on the back of the board. Your wiring looks good, unless something is shorted that I can't see. Of course, check everything with the multimeter to make sure there are no shorts and the proper voltages are where you expect it. also note that VSS is on R8, for proper alignment of the prop plug. The other thing is that I usually have the board plugged in before I plug in the prop plug, not sure if it makes a difference. Does the Prop or eeprom feel hot to the touch?

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Vaati

04-30-2009, 02:26 AM

No, they don't feel hot, but they seem to be a bit warm.... So, what do I select on the Propeller Tool in order to just try to run a program?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:50:53 PM GMT

Vaati

04-30-2009, 02:49 AM

Wait, the Propeller chip is definitely warm. I doubt that is ever a good sign...

EDIT: this is false.· the chip wasn't remotely warm....

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:51:34 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-30-2009, 03:05 AM

The propeller tool just compiles and uploads. I've used GEAR before for emulation - check the wiki (http://propeller.wikispaces.com/Debuggers+and+Emulators). I suspect that warm is a bad sign - that might be your problem. Once you let the smoke out, it's hard to get it back in...

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Vaati

04-30-2009, 03:08 AM

... So, do you think my propeller chip is toast?

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:51:45 PM GMT

Nick McClick

04-30-2009, 04:57 AM

Possibly - it's tough chip & sometimes it gets a little warm, though (like on my ybox). But hot to the touch would be a sure sign. Can you put the chip in another project and see if it fires up?

I updated the parts ordering to include.... PRICE! I've tried to keep them competitive without undercutting the price of projects. Of course, shipping is still $3.00. The updated parts page is www.gadgetgangster.com/parts (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/parts)

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Nick McClick

05-01-2009, 02:08 AM

No entries - have I stumped you guys? I'm hoping my penguin won't be homeless for mother's day!

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Vaati

05-01-2009, 02:10 AM

Can you PLEASE extend the deadline...? My propeller is fried...

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:51:57 PM GMT

SRLM

05-01-2009, 03:50 AM

As mentioned, I switched from the blue LEDs to the red LEDs. Unfortunately, I forgot to change my resistors so they're really dim... Time to pull out the variable regulator and make a hack! I have a midterm though in 20 min, so it will have to wait...

Vaati

05-01-2009, 03:51 AM

Ouch... What midterm?

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:52:31 PM GMT

SRLM

05-01-2009, 01:40 PM

Vaati: twas a computer science class...

Well, I wish I could say that I've finished, but that wouldn't be quite true. I got home today expecting to be able to just load my new code onto the chip (which I tested elsewhere), do a couple of tweaks, and submit. Unfortunately, I discovered that the LEDs in my project (an LED binary clock) were staying constantly lit: even when I removed the propeller! About an hour of trouble shooting has told me that I soldered in three of my chips backwards: inputs were becoming outputs, and outputs inputs. Unfortunately, I do all my soldering at the local university EE shop, which (as one might expect) is closed this late at night. So, I've attached a couple of pictures of my project, and I'll work some more on it on the morrow. Technically, I think I'll just make up a whole new board: this one become sort of messy quickly when I was trouble shooting. It will be revision four or five...

If you don't get any submissions (Nick), may I suggest that you try again in the summer? Maybe a Mid-Summers Night Challenge? The main difficulty for me is that I'm taking about 20 credits this quarter, and my day is packed. I hardly have time for any projects (GG or otherwise), with all the class work that I have to do. I suppose it's the same for many other potential college student designers.

So, I'll be submitting the project sometime next week (hopefully! It's been worked on in various forms since the begining of January...). It will be a binary LED clock with options to display H:M:S, M, S (since begining of day). I can't figure out a clean way to get 3 buttons in there, so I think I'll make the "turn-on" time 5pm.

Time for some comfort food...

Post Edited (SRLM) : 5/1/2009 6:56:10 AM GMT

Nick McClick

05-02-2009, 12:35 AM

I was thinking it would make sense to extend it, but I didn't want to be unfair to anyone who would be entering - but if I don't have any entrants, let's extend it until the 17th at Midnight, Pacific. That will give everyone 3 full weekends, if they need it (of course, you can enter earlier!).

@srlm - looks like an awesome project! What about putting the LED's on the board? That would make for a simplier build (but it wouldn't look as cool). Blue LED's would look nice, but they're pretty expensive. I also think there's something retro / cool about red led's. Don't worry - this won't be the last contest of all time, I'm sure we'll put something together before upew.

Another question; Is there any way to reduce the number of resistors? I guess if you connected them to a common cathode, but then the resistance required would vary with the number of LED's on.

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Vaati

05-02-2009, 12:41 AM

Yay! That will give me time to sort out my propeller chip perils! Also, I will have time to order more things if the need arises.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:52:40 PM GMT

SRLM

05-02-2009, 01:26 AM

I thought about putting the LEDs on the board, but that would require that I a) get 19 LEDs in a row, b) make it look nice. It's certainly possible,and I'll probably make a version like that, but I don't like the look. Too much clutter. The tape was just a hack to get it together: my final design will have the LEDs glued in, with the wires running along the back of the bar. That part will be left up to the user. I'll provide directions, but don't expect you to provide the drilled aluminum. That way, they can mount it any way they want. As for the resistors, they're actually one of the fun parts to solder. It's relaxing to bend them, stick them through the holes, then fold the legs over to hold them in place. If you do that before pulling out the soldering iron (along with placing all the sockets) then it's quite easy to whip through. A resistor network might work, but I don't have any in the correct value. The big time killer (and one reason why this project has been dragging on) was that I didn't have a good method to connect two wires to a the leads of and LED without alot clamps to hold it in place. I figured out a pretty good solution though, so in the end it only takes two minutes to make each strand. As for LED color, you're right: blue is more expensive than red (almost six or seven times!). I was thinking that several options could be offered: blue, red, green probably.

Vaati

05-02-2009, 05:56 AM

@SRLM: Your project looks great! I don't know if you have room, but is it possible for you to have your LED's on the boss board itself or on the full/half board with something connecting them like a ribbon cable...? then, you could have that part with a cheap RadioShack project enclosure... I don't know if it's possible or not, but it's just a suggestion....

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/4/2009 5:52:52 PM GMT

Nick McClick

05-04-2009, 11:41 PM

Just a few updates;

I updated the Propeller Designers Pack (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/86) to include a Prop, eeprom, 6Mhz xtal and an extra board. I also updated the SX Designers Pack (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/87) to include an SX and an extra board.

I've also added some inventory (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/parts);

TIP 120 Power Transistor
2.5mm TRS jack (for stuff like cell phones, fits at the same spot as the 3.5mm jacks)
Digital thermometer (uses 1-wire in a TO-92 package)

Vaati's project is now up, too - the Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130). Not a canidate for this contest, but still a cool project (and great instructable).

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Nick McClick

05-05-2009, 11:24 AM

@srlm -
I redid bean's Cylon Lights (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/66) on the new board - it uses 8 lights. I didn't use current limiting resistors, but it worked fine. Adding LED's straight to the board might be messier for your project, though. Here's a photo of it on a prototype of the Boss Board;
http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/cylonnewboard.jpg

I also just got labels in the mail today. These go on project baggies and they're meant to keep people who order multiple kits from being confused which is which. I think it also makes for a better presentation.
http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/kitlabels.jpg

Myc Holmes is working on an entry for the PICaxe contest, but he sent me this 'quick reference guide' (pdf (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/diptrace.pdf)), which you might find helpful. He's working on a diptrace version, too (although it will require the paid version of diptrace - did you know the boss board has 700 holes?) I'm going to have him update the colors to match what we've been using and I'll add it to the site.

LASTLY - I added sorting to the find a project page! (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/find-a-project.html) You can sort by popularity, price, date, or difficulty. This is ajax based, so it's pretty fast to update.

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Vaati

05-08-2009, 12:08 AM

My new propeller chip works on the boss board!! I can now finally start building my circuit! http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Nick McClick

05-08-2009, 08:39 AM

@Vaati - glad you got it all figured out! I know you were having some trouble in the beginning, now the hard part begins. My only suggestion is to keep it simple (especially for the contest) - sliced bread wasn't a complicated idea, but it sure was nice, same goes for electronics projects.

I added a few items to the inventory (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/parts). One designer is working on a musical keyboard and requested I carry snap action switches. I wasn't sure if they'd fit on the board, but they work great! I also got 1xAAA battery holders. may not be useful for this contest, but it's an easy way to add power, especially if your project just needs 1.5V or 3V.

Switch by itself - .1 gap between each pin.
http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/switch.jpg

About 10 switches fit in a row. You can also see the battery holder on the top. The battery holder is 1.9" between pins.
http://www.gadgetgangster.com/working_files/switch2.jpg

Also got relays in the mail & they fit fine. Also, did anyone see Vaati's power supply project on Make (http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2009/05/diy_12-volt_adjustable_power_supply.html)?

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Vaati

05-09-2009, 03:06 AM

Nick, could you please post a pdf or word doc on how to connect PS/2 and NES?· I need to figure that out today so I can start using that in my program, and the Gadget Gangster forums seem to be down as well as the entire site...· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/shocked.gif
Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Nick McClick

05-12-2009, 06:46 AM

The logs don't show it being down - is it working now for you? Anyway - Here's the setup for NES /PS/2 (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/ggnew/forums/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=81).

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Nick McClick

05-12-2009, 11:27 PM

I think you're having DNS issues, these problems usually work themselves out. I've attached a pdf of the setup thread, I hope it helps!

Also, for the Father's Day contest, Advanced Micro Circuits (http://world-educational-services.info/) donated a Micro-090 (http://world-educational-services.info/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=9&products_id=32) PICaxe based 28x1 USB Mini board. There are only a few days left for the Prop / SX contest, but if anyone would like to donate a prize, just shoot me a PM http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smilewinkgrin.gif

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Post Edited (Nick McClick) : 5/12/2009 4:39:55 PM GMT

KPR

05-13-2009, 10:27 PM

Actually Nick.. I can't hit your server either.. I get a host unreachable error.. and here's what I get from centralops.net

I have friends that use theplanet for hosting and they always have issues like this.. I suggest you make a phone call to them

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New ICON coming, gotta wait for the INK to heal, now we have colour!

shanghai_fool

05-13-2009, 10:51 PM

I can get to it and I am in China.

Vaati

05-13-2009, 10:52 PM

Mine just keeps saying that it timed out when I run command prompt and try to ping/nslookup gadget gangster... Ah well... At least Parallax works. http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

Also, I need a snippet of code for my project... Does anyone have a simple timer that outputs on a tv and doesn't require external IC's?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Vaati

05-14-2009, 06:57 AM

Oh no! Only 5 more days!! I must get that penguin! How many people have entered so far...?

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Nick McClick

05-14-2009, 11:37 PM

Still no entrants, usually, people wait until pretty late to submit the entry, though.

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Nick McClick

05-16-2009, 12:46 AM

'outages' should be fixed. The server wasn't down, but the router had mistakenly blocked a few IP address (part of DDoS / brute force protection). Just a few days left! I was digging thru some old files and I thought I'd share this. It was our original logo, hand drawn by me;
http://www.nicholasm.com/gadgetgangster/img/gadgetgangster.gif

Here's a screenshot (http://www.nicholasm.com/gadgetgangster/Screenshot.png) of the original website, too. This was back when the Gangster smoked (Personally, I still kind of prefer a smoking Gangster, but whatevs. That original banner was HUGE!

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SRLM

05-16-2009, 11:10 AM

Here is my submission for the contest.

The Bacchus Clock is a binary LED clock based on the Propeller. There isn't really anything particularily revolutionary about it, mostly it's a long soldering job.

I thought about board mounting it, but unfortunately the LEDs take up too much space to do so. I figured out a way to make the soldering of the wires to the LEDs fairly easy, so that it's not too much pain. Each LED requires a single wire. I then mounted them onto the aluminum bar to get a nice spacing, and an attempt at a space age type feel (thin line with lights). I haven't quite figured out how I'm going to mount the Propeller board relative to the bar yet, but it will probably be in the same position. After all, half the reason for the project was for a technical solder job, so might as well display that. I thought about using a box with holes for the LEDs and power, but to fit everything I thought that would look too bulky and just to hobby level.

This is the fifth or sixth attempt at mine for this clock. I started in January with the GG full board, but unfortunately somewhere along the line I've lost the container that had the original attempts in there (along with all my tactile switches and other goodies!). This is the third attempt with the boss board. Hence, I've had to use the smaller crystals rather than the standard GG size can.

The clock right now is fairly simple and straight forward. Eventually I'll get to a design that has a few extra features, namely a set of three buttons for setting the time, and a temperature sensor with resistor so that I can include a PI loop and keep the crystal at a constant temperature. As it stands, the clock (based on crystal datasheet) can vary a second a day, or six minutes per year (+- perhaps another 6 minutes). Temperature variations should add some more to that.

This weekend I plan on getting the full build guide written up, and posted into the completed projects forum. As a side note, I named it the Bacchus clock because I think that it will drive me crazy eventually. I plan on mounting it on the wall to test this theory. If my posts start to seem a little chaotic, please pull the plug.

Here is an enrapturing movie of the Bacchus clock. Thanks to mctrivia for hosting.

Movie (http://uploads.propmodule.com/SRLM___GGBacchusClock.MOV)

Post Edited (SRLM) : 5/16/2009 4:13:29 PM GMT

mctrivia

05-16-2009, 11:11 AM

ya the first person to use my service. :)

Cool clock by the way.

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My new unsecure propmod (http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?p=797321) both 1x1 and full size arriving soon.

Need to upload large images or movies for use in the forum. you can do so at propmodule.com/upload.html (http://propmodule.com/upload.html) for free.

Post Edited (mctrivia) : 5/16/2009 4:22:47 AM GMT

Vaati

05-18-2009, 12:58 AM

SRLM,
· That's an awesome project!!· I hope you post it on Gadget Gangster!· I've been wondering how in the world a binary clock is made...
Well, I am very close to submitting my project...· I just need to tweak the code a tiny bit more...http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/idea.gif

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

mctrivia

05-18-2009, 01:15 AM

my binary clock uses actuall 0 and 1's on my 60x14 led display. though with that many leds you could tell time in binary in seconds from the begining of time

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My new unsecure propmod (http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?p=797321) both 1x1 and full size arriving soon.

Need to upload large images or movies for use in the forum. you can do so at uploader.propmodule.com (http://uploader.propmodule.com) for free.

Vaati

05-18-2009, 05:32 AM

Okay, I am finished!!

Parts:

Everything in the propeller development pack, plus
·Propeller chip
·32Kb EEPROM
·Green power LED (the original 3mm red I got blew...· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/eyes.gif )
·Red LED
·470 Ohm resistor
·Buzzer (I don't know what the one in the inventory is like, but I used a RadioShack one...)
·4 Rubber feet
·All the necessary jumpers
·And of course, a power supply

I attached some pics of the board with everything.
The EBay auction clock is a timer that is to be turned on approx. 24 hours before the end of the auction.· This can be done by plugging it in beforehand and, once the auction page says "24 hours remaining," flip the SPDT switch at [ Ph ] away from the 5 volt regulator spot.

Approximately 12 minutes before the auction ends, the buzzer will buzz for 0.5 seconds at 0.5 second intervals until the board is unplugged.· The red LED will blink for the same amount of time at the same intervals.
The reason behind me creating the EBay clock was because my mom LOVES·EBay, and she has missed out on quite a few good deals because she didn't have·a sufficient warning ahead of time in order to snipe.· This is also good for when one of your auctions sells.

I plan on revising this so it connects to the internet via the PINK...· But, it seems as if that would be a bit excessive....· Ah well.· It's a good excuse to get a Parallax Internet Netburner Kit!··http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/burger.gif

Well, that pretty much covers my EBay Auction Clock.· I just want to know if I have to post the code as well...

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/17/2009 10:49:46 PM GMT

Nick McClick

05-18-2009, 05:37 AM

It's really weird, the red LED's I have are flipped lead lengths (the Cathode is longer than the anode).

No need to post the sourcecode for now. Two solid entrants! Still a few hours left.

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Vaati

05-18-2009, 05:38 AM

Awesome! So, do you need a video or anything to prove it works... ? I could whip one up if it's necessary....

Thanks.

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Vaati

05-18-2009, 07:05 AM

Okay....· here's a video, just in case.· http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/roll.gif

http://uploads.propmodule.com/vaati___P6160019.MOV

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

mctrivia

05-18-2009, 08:52 AM

trying to figure out how a movie that short can be so big.

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My new unsecure propmod (http://forums.parallax.com/showthread.php?p=797321) both 1x1 and full size arriving soon.

Need to upload large images or movies for use in the forum. you can do so at uploader.propmodule.com (http://uploader.propmodule.com) for free.

Vaati

05-18-2009, 09:07 AM

LOL! Yeah, I don't get it either...

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Vaati

05-18-2009, 09:24 AM

.... Counting down the minutes!!! Forum staring is fun...

http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

Hmmm...· But I don't think I would be allowed to do anything fun at all if my parents find me staying up until 3AM ET....

3 hours and 15 minutes to go...

http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/roll.gif

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Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!

Post Edited (Vaati) : 5/18/2009 3:38:38 AM GMT

Nick McClick

05-18-2009, 11:11 AM

Ha! We get a few days to figure out the winners, don't stay up too later http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

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SRLM

05-18-2009, 02:17 PM

Vaati said...
Counting down the minutes!

It's on! GRRR! ROAR! Yawn...

I think it's my bedtime. :)

Nick McClick

05-26-2009, 05:29 AM

Winner was announced in our newsletter (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/scripts/emails/05_21_09_eNL.html) on Thursday. I mailed out prizes this weekend. Thanks again to all those who entered!

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SRLM

05-26-2009, 06:10 AM

As a side note, I probably won't be able to get the full construction document done for a while. I made a mistake a while back and took on too many classes (four and job tutoring CS) this quarter, so I'm really busy. I may be able to find some time, but no promises until the summer (June ~15).

Oh, and congratulations Vaati. I think even my mother would rather have an ebay monitor rather than a binary clock. She's not much of a geek... :)

Vaati

05-26-2009, 07:17 AM

Thanks-- my mom would never pick up a soldering iron for anything in the world! Well, this contest was super fun, and I can't wait for your binary clock to be up on Gadget Gangster. I wonder when the next propeller contest will be..... http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

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Roger Lee

05-26-2009, 08:04 AM

congratulations Vaati on a job well done, Nice project.

It was nice to meet you in Wooster on Saturday last.

Roger

Nick McClick

05-27-2009, 02:25 AM

Both projects are pretty cool. The only thing missing from Vaati's project is the ability to set the auction end time. I think srlm's project was technically cooler, but Vaati's had a better tie in with Mother's Day. Vaati's idea was pretty original, too.

Vaati - you should add 3 switches: 1 for hours, 1 for minutes, and 1 to start the timer then publish it on the site. Doing the code in spin would be dead simple, and I think it would be a popular selling project!

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Vaati

05-27-2009, 02:55 AM

Thanks for the suggestions! I will play with the code over the summer while working on other Gadget Gangster projects. http://forums.parallax.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Quit buying all those fixed voltage regulators, and·get an Adjustable Power Supply (http://www.gadgetgangster.com/130)·for your projects!· Includes an LED testing terminal!